May 14 – Power in the Last Days

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves… unthankful, unholy . . . lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” II Timothy 3:1-2, 4-5

In I Chronicles 13:32, the men of Issachar “had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.” Likewise, Christians today must realize that these are the “last days” and what yet needs to be accomplished. It is no longer “business as usual.” The time of the Gentiles has been fulfilled since the 1967 War in Jerusalem. (See Luke 2 1:24.)

God is shaking all nations on the earth. The Berlin Wall is down; the Soviet Union has disbanded; South Africa is dealing with the aftermath of apartheid. He wants His people to have understanding and POWER to endure tribulations and minister to others.

POWER comes through overcoming, and overcoming comes through experience. Study Jesus’ example in Luke 4. In times of distress, you must say to the enemy: “It is written… .” Proclaim the promises of God.

Praise and worship releases POWER for miracles. (See Psalm 67.) Persistence in prayer releases POWER for answers. (See Luke 11:5-10 and 18:1-8.)

PRAY:
“Omnipotent Father, I need Your POWER to see me through these times. Help me to be a peacemaker and to lift up Jesus’ Name so that others can experience it, too.”